Melanocyte Stimulation Hormone, Alpha (a-MSH)
Test Mnemonic
MSHA
CPT Codes
- 83519 - QTY (1)
Aliases
- Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone
- a-MSH
Performing Laboratory
ARUP
Specimen Requirements
| Volume | Type | Container | Collect Temperature | Transport Temperature | Special Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 mL | Plasma | EDTA (Lavender) | Frozen, Critical | Separate plasma from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer plasma to standard aliquot tube and freeze immediately. Separate specimens must be submitted when multiple tests are ordered. |
Minimum Specimen Requirements
| Volume | Type | Container | Collect Temperature | Transport Temperature | Special Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 mL |
Stability
| Environmental Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Frozen | 1 month |
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |
| Ambient | Unacceptable |
Days Performed
Varies
Turnaround Time
2 - 3 weeks
Methodology
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Radioimmunoassay |
Reference Range
| Melano Stim Hormone | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sex | Age From | Age To | Type | Range | Range Unit |
| Refer to report |
Special Info
Patient should not be on any steroid, ACTH, or hypertension medication, if possible, for at least 48 hours prior to specimen collection. Morning fasting specimens are preferred.